Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya has delivered a strong critique in Parliament regarding the potential political interference in the electoral reform process. In a statement made at the end of the week, Mr. Koya expressed concerns over the integrity of the Electoral Commission, especially in light of recent public comments made by its chairperson, former chief justice Daniel Fatiaki.
Mr. Koya pointed out that the recent appointment of the commission is under threat due to its members discussing issues outside their purview. He expressed that the independence of the commission is at risk, highlighting a previous exchange where the Minister for Public Works dismissed Mr. Fatiaki’s remarks about ethnic-based voting as “premature.” This, he argued, undermines the commission’s impartiality.
Koya emphasized the constitutional obligation to treat all citizens equally, warning against disrespecting the foundation of democratic governance. He asserted that electoral law reform must be carefully executed to ensure fairness and that all voices in Fiji are upheld.
Concerns about the electoral process echo sentiments shared earlier by Daniel Fatiaki, who criticized the manipulation of electoral laws for political gain. He stressed the importance of a user-friendly electoral system that promotes participation and rejects ethnic-based voting practices. Both Koya and Fatiaki call for the involvement of multinational observer groups and public consultations to address issues of representation, notably the underrepresentation of women in politics, as only five were elected in the last general election.
As these discussions unfold, there remains an opportunity for meaningful reform that could enhance the democratic landscape in Fiji. The ongoing call for transparency and inclusiveness signals a hopeful trajectory towards a political environment that truly reflects the aspirations of its citizens, fostering trust and engagement in the nation’s governance.
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